How to File for Divorce in Iowa Without a Lawyer (2026 Guide)

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Iowa Without a Lawyer

Iowa requires 1 year residency with a 90-day waiting period. The state is pure no-fault and can divide all property regardless of acquisition. DIY divorce is possible for uncontested cases.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Iowa?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Both agree to divorce
Agreement on all property division
No child custody disputes
No spousal support disputes
Both willing to cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Child custody or support disputes
Complex property division
Significant assets
Retirement accounts
Spouse contests

Find Iowa Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Iowa

Step 1

Verify 1-Year Residency

Either spouse must have lived in Iowa for 1 year before filing.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

Iowa driver's license
Voter registration
Utility bills

Step 2

Complete Petition for Dissolution

Fill out Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $250-300
State breakdown of marriage relationship
Use Iowa court forms

Step 3

File with District Court

Submit petition to district court in your county.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 day

💡 Tips:

Bring original + copies
Pay filing fee
Get case number

Step 4

Serve Your Spouse

Have spouse served by authorized person.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve yourself
Sheriff or process server
Spouse can waive service

Step 5

Wait 90 Days

Iowa requires 90-day waiting period from service.

⏱ Estimated Time: 90 days

💡 Tips:

Cannot finalize earlier
Prepare settlement during wait

Step 6

Exchange Financial Affidavits

Both complete detailed financial affidavits.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required disclosure
List ALL property
Iowa divides all property

Step 7

Draft Settlement Agreement

Create comprehensive settlement agreement.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Address all property (all-property state)
Include custody if children
Both must sign

Step 8

Attend Final Hearing

Appear before judge for prove-up hearing.

⏱ Estimated Time: 30-60 minutes

💡 Tips:

Both must attend
Bring all documents
Answer judge's questions

Step 9

Receive Decree

Court issues Decree of Dissolution.

⏱ Estimated Time: Immediately

💡 Tips:

Request certified copies
Effective immediately

Required Forms for Iowa Divorce

Petition for Dissolution (CDIS001)

Required

📄 Download Form

Financial Affidavit (CDIS003)

Required

Settlement Agreement (Custom)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Iowa DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$300-400

Filing fee: $250-300
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$4,000-18,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Iowa Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not meeting 1-year residency

Not understanding all-property division

Missing 90-day wait

Incomplete financial disclosure

Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa DIY Divorce

What does Iowa's all-property division mean?

Iowa courts can divide all property regardless of when or how it was acquired. This includes property owned before marriage, gifts, and inheritances in the equitable distribution.

Is Iowa a no-fault divorce state?

Yes, Iowa is a pure no-fault state. You only need to state there has been a breakdown of the marriage relationship.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Iowa?

Yes, Iowa provides forms and allows self-representation. The court system offers assistance.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Iowa, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Iowa Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer